Deemed as the Gathering Place, O’ahu is the third-largest Hawaiian island and is home to the state capital of Honolulu. With a gorgeous blend of white-sand beaches, lush and verdant flora, and an endless expanse of blue waters, O’ahu is home to not only the iconic Waikiki Beach but also a host of picturesque hiking trails. Along with an endless number of clear, bright days, O’ahu contains a myriad of trailheads that are a dream for beginners and seasoned hikers alike. Want to reconnect with nature? Then be sure to read on to know about the top hiking trails in O’ahu, Hawaii.
1. Kealia Trail
If you’re looking for a moderate workout, then Kealia Trail is the perfect choice for you! With a total length of 12.2 km (7.6 miles), the trail leads up a rapid incline to almost 800 m (0.5 miles) while providing a breathtaking view of the ocean and stunning snapshots of Makua Valley. With a flurry of wildflowers and dense foliage along the way, the trail consists of a number of routes that allow you to choose the length of your hike. As you head ever upward, be amazed by the variety of activities the trail offers. From picnics to hunting, Kealia Trail consists of an assortment of choices that ultimately lead to fun! Accessible across from a parking lot and proceeding inland on a wide paved road, the trail ends with a view overlooking Makua Valley Military Training Area.
Kealia Trail
Address: Farrington Hwy, Waialua, HI
Website: Kealia Trail
Opening hours: 7am - 6pm (daily)
Price: Free
2. ʻAiea Loop Trail
Casual or beginner hikers may instead be interested in dropping by Keaīwa Heiau State Recreation Area for ‘Aiea Loop Trail, a relatively easy 6.8-kilometer (4.2-mile) hike along the ridge west of Halawa Valley. As the name suggests, the trail is a scenic hiking loop through the park and features lush tropical vegetation and dramatic views of the southern coast. Thanks to lovely lemon eucalyptus trees, hikers will be pleasantly greeted with a light citrus fragrance that perfumes the air on top of majestic Norfolk Island pine trees toward the end of the trail. With gradual uphill climbs, the trail is estimated to last two and a half to three hours depending on how long you take to smell the roses.
‘Aiea Loop Trail
Address: 99-1849 Aiea Heights Dr, Aiea, HI
Website: ’Aiea Loop Trail
Opening hours: 7am - 7:45pm (daily)
Price: Free
3. Kaʻena Point Trail
Ka’ena Point Trail is a relatively easy 9-kilometer (5.6-mile) hike along a flat railroad bed and former dirt road. With its two entry points, you will start from either Wai’anae or Mokule’ia and end at Ka‘ena Point Natural Area Reserve, a protected land space preserving the few remaining coastal sand dunes on O’ahu. With astounding views of the ocean’s waters and a variety of interesting wildlife, this one- to three-hour trail offers plenty for the eyes. Whales have even been spotted along the trail during the winter! Take note, however, that there is a lack of shaded rest areas. Hence, it is advised that you hike there in the morning or late evening to avoid the merciless sun.
Kaʻena Point Trail
Address: Farrington Hwy, Waialua, HI
Website: Kaʻena Point Trail
Opening hours: 6am - 6:45pm (daily)
Price: Free
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4. Wiliwilinui Hiking Trail
Wiliwilinui Hiking Trail, also known as Wiliwilinui Ridge Trail, is a challenging 7.2-kilometer (4.5-mile) trail through steep inclines and slippery slopes. Though the trailhead requires some walking to get to since it is located in a gated community, the trail is well-paved and manicured. As you make your way through the lush tropical forest, you will eventually meet an endless number of stairs that are sure to make you break a sweat. Some technical ability is required as well due to a short rope climb, as are spiked boots for the muddy trail, but you are ultimately well-rewarded with a breathtaking view of O’ahu. From the top, you can sneak a peek at Waikiki, Koko Crater, and even Diamond Head beyond the acres of verdant treetops. As one of the less popular trails in O’ahu, the hike should be relatively quiet and offer a sense of serenity, as though you’re deep in the heart of the jungle.
Wiliwilinui Hiking Trail
Address: 2390 Okoa St, Honolulu, HI
Website: Wiliwilinui Hiking Trail
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
5. Ka'au Crater Trail
For veteran hikers looking for a good challenge, Ka’au Crater Trail may help quell your thirst for adventure. With a length of 11.7 km (7.2 miles), the five-hour trail is extremely muddy due to the three waterfalls along the way and is navigable only by the most skilled adventurer. Though it is relatively easy up till the third waterfall, the merciless trail continues onto a muddy ridge that can be very dangerous for even the most seasoned experts. Take care to pack enough supplies such as food and water for the tireless hike! A couple of scrambles later, you will quickly find yourself at the top, blessed with amazing views of O’ahu’s stunning landscape. For those willing to take the risk, take note that the Ka’au Crater trailhead is well-concealed behind mailboxes left of Waiomao Road.
Ka'au Crater Trail
Address: 3000 10th Ave, Honolulu, HI
Opening hours: 6am - 6pm (daily)
6. Hauʻula Loop Trail
The hour-long Hau’ula Loop Trail is an easy 4.2-kilometer (2.6-mile) hike with a stunning array of picturesque landscapes. With plenty of shade, a relatively flat terrain, and only a few small inclines, Hau’ula Loop Trail is suitable for all ages. Reconnect with nature as you take a relaxing stroll through the bustling wilderness of Ko’olau Mountains, and be prepared to be amazed by the dynamic shifts in the scenery.
Hauʻula Loop Trail
Address: 54-55 Maakua Rd, Laie, HI
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 24 hours (closed on Sun)
Price: Free
7. Makiki Valley Loop Trail
This 4-kilometer (2.5-mile) trail is an easy hike combining Kanealole Trail, Maunalaha Trail, and Makiki Valley Trail. This gorgeous trail passes through lush tropical forests and even has a charming little stream winding through its path. Take your time exploring every nook and cranny, and you’ll be pleasantly surprised to find some delightful waterfalls or exotic birds to admire. Manageable for even kids, Makiki Valley Loop Trail offers the perfect family-bonding activity!
Makiki Valley Loop Trail
Address: Unnamed Road, Honolulu, HI
Website: Makiki Valley Loop Trail
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
8. Manoa Falls Trail (from USD 99.0)
Accessible all year long, Manoa Falls Trail is a moderately easy hike that lasts around four to five hours. With a length of 2.7 km (1.678 miles), the trail starts from the end of Manoa Road, winding up 193 m (633 ft) along a lush Hawaiian tropical rainforest and ending at the base of the magnificent Manoa Falls. Hikers may also be pleasantly surprised to recognize parts of the trail from hits such as Jurassic Park and Lost. Do also note that the area receives significant rainfall. Hence, it is recommended to check the weather beforehand to avoid flash floods—and to wear proper footwear to brave the muddy slopes. Interested visitors may also drop by the nearby Lyon Arboretum and Botanical Garden, a short drive from downtown Honolulu, to admire the island’s efforts to preserve endangered Hawaiian plant species.
Manoa Waterfall Hike with Healthy Lunch Included From Waikiki
Duration: 5 hours
9. Diamond Head Crater Hike (from USD 19.95)
Looking to gain a deeper insight into O’ahu itself? Then be sure not to miss Diamond Head Crater Hike! With over 300 steps to conquer, the 2.5-kilometer (1.6-mile) hike is a challenging two-hour journey that leads to a breathtaking summit. Just minutes from Waikiki, the hike is well-known for its immense historical significance, incomparable coastal views, and compelling military history. For extra fun, drop by Diamond Head State Monument to relish its panoramic view of the ocean, or book a guided tour now to bag home some complimentary souvenirs.
Oahu: Diamond Head Hike with Official Audio Guide & Souvenir
Duration: 2 hour
10. Koko Crater Railway Trailhead (from USD 40.0)
Better known as Koko Head Stairs, Koko Crater Railway Trailhead is a short but challenging hike up a total of 1,050 steps. Testing your endurance and strength, the steep stairs were fashioned from old railroad ties mounted to the hillside during World War II in order to haul cargo and supplies to the top. After about two hours of toil, rest assured that you will be well-rewarded for all your time and effort. Not only is there a panoramic view of the island’s spectacular shoreline, but the rich historical significance of the old military bunkers is also a treat for all. Koko Crater Botanical Garden is situated at the top of the crater for those interested in the island’s rich flora. A short drive from Diamond Head and Waikiki, this 2.9-kilometer (1.8-mile) trail is easily accessible from the Koko Head District Park parking lot.
Koko Crater Challenge
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
Hiking for all
With an endless expanse of lush flora and clear blue skies, O’ahu, Hawaii, is the perfect hiking destination. There are plenty of breathtaking trails in a range of difficulties. Even if you’re alone or with family, a beginner or seasoned hiker, O’ahu welcomes all!
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